The Flying Fijians’ head coach, Mick Byrne, emphasized the growing significance of World Rugby rankings in the current World Cup cycle, particularly as they shape the pool draws for the upcoming 2027 tournament in Australia. Byrne noted that victories over higher-ranked teams are vital for advancing Fiji’s position in the rankings.
Currently, Fiji sits at 9th in the world rankings, just falling short of moving to 8th after a narrow 15-point win against Scotland, whereas a 16-point margin would have secured that position. Byrne underlined the importance of being among the top six teams, as this group will enjoy advantages in qualifying for the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
The coach is optimistic about the team’s future prospects, with two tier-one Tests remaining this year and six more scheduled for next year. The expanded 2027 World Cup will feature 24 teams, introducing a knockout stage that includes the top two teams from each pool and four best third-placed teams automatically qualifying—creating a pathway for Fiji to capitalize on their rankings advancements.
This sentiment resonates with the coaching philosophies emphasized in previous articles discussing Fiji’s development and competitive aspirations. With strong performances in recent matches and a commitment to nurturing young talent, Fiji’s rugby landscape is evolving positively, setting the stage for exciting opportunities ahead. As they continue to prepare for upcoming tests against top-tier opponents, the squad aims to elevate their game and make a firm impact on the international stage.
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